Digital Builder Why the Future of Preconstruction is Brighter Than Ever
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Nov 12, 2025 
Jose Gudiño, Manager of Construction Technology at Swinerton, and Jeff Gerardi, Director of Preconstruction Strategy at Autodesk, delve into the bright future of preconstruction. They discuss the shift from cumbersome spreadsheets to AI-enhanced, integrated workflows. Tools overload is tackled as they advocate for streamlined systems. AI also plays a crucial role in automating tasks and enhancing strategic decision-making. The evolving estimator role is highlighted, emphasizing mentorship and collaboration to spark interest in preconstruction careers.
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Estimating Must Become Connected
- Estimating historically relied on measuring 2D blueprints and Excel for quantities and costs.
- The future requires combining takeoff, estimating, and bid management into connected workflows.
Precon Runs In Parallel With Design
- Pre-construction used to be segmented but is now running parallel with design and rapid addendums.
- That acceleration makes pre-con the first place to mitigate project risk.
Consolidating Tool Sprawl At Swinerton
- Swinerton had many overlapping tools: multiple takeoff and estimating solutions created technical debt.
- They consolidated down to a few core tools and one core estimating system through rationalization.